Keep Your Car Safe at College

1. Pick a Good Parking Spot

• Park in Well-Lit Areas: Always choose spots with good lighting, especially at night. Thieves are less likely to target cars in well-lit areas.
• Look for Cameras: If your campus has parking lots with security cameras, park there when you can.

2. Lock Up Every Time

• Lock Your Doors: It sounds simple, but it’s easy to forget. Make sure your doors are locked before you leave your car.
• Close Your Windows: Even a small crack in the window can make it easier for someone to break in.

3. Hide Your Stuff

• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Don’t leave things like laptops, phones, or bags where they can be seen. Put them in the trunk or take them with you.
• Use Your Trunk or Glove Box: If you need to leave something in the car, hide it in the trunk or glove compartment.

4. Add Extra Security

• Car Alarms: If your car doesn’t have one, consider getting an alarm installed. It can scare off potential thieves.
• Steering Wheel Locks: These are visible and can make your car less appealing to steal.
• GPS Trackers: In case your car is stolen, a GPS tracker can help find it quickly.

5. Keep Your Keys Safe

• Don’t Leave Keys in the Car: Even if you’re just stepping away for a minute, always take your keys with you.
• Hide Spare Keys Smartly: Don’t hide spare keys in obvious places like under the mat. Keep them in your dorm or apartment instead.

6. Know the Area

• Check Campus Safety Stats: Look up crime statistics for your campus to know which areas are safer to park.
• Avoid Risky Spots: Stay away from parking in areas known for higher crime, especially at night.

7. Get the Right Insurance

• Consider Comprehensive Coverage: This type of insurance covers theft, vandalism, and other non-collision damages. It’s worth the extra cost for peace of mind.
• Understand Your Policy: Know what your insurance covers and what your deductibles are.

8. Check Your Car Regularly

• Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your car for any signs of tampering, like scratches or broken locks.
• Keep Up with Maintenance: Maintaining your car helps prevent issues like a dead battery that could leave your car vulnerable.

9. Stay Connected with Campus Security

• Use Campus Security Apps: Many schools have apps that give real-time safety updates. These can alert you to potential threats to your car.
• Report Anything Suspicious: If you see something unusual, report it to campus security. It helps keep everyone safe.

10. Think About Alternative Transportation

• Carpool or Use Public Transport: If you’re worried about your car’s safety, consider using public transportation or carpooling. This can reduce the time your car spends in risky areas.

Conclusion

Keeping your car safe while at college doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips, you can protect your vehicle and focus on enjoying your college experience without worrying about your car.